An politician with the Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party, who has in the past called for the dissolution of the Minneapolis Police Department, is now asking for stricter crime legislation after she was severely attacked and had her car stolen outside of her residence. The news of Shivanthi Sathanandan’s assault was posted on Facebook by the DFL’s Second Vice Chairwoman, Shivanthi Sathanandan. In her post, she vented her rage and indignation at those who were responsible for the attack. During the assault, which took place in front of her small children, she was left with a fractured leg, severe head lacerations, as well as a variety of other bruises and wounds.
In a post that she made on Facebook, Sathanandan highlighted how important it is that the people responsible for the crime be captured and made to answer for their acts. She asked for more stringent measures to be taken against illicit firearms on the streets and highlighted how important it was to bring criminal charges against young people who were involved in such crimes. To emphasize the gravity of the situation, she published a picture of herself that showed blood splattered on her face.
Sathanandan’s neighborhood in Minneapolis was the location of a carjacking, which was confirmed by the police; however, no suspects have been caught as of yet. Sathanandan communicated her appreciation to the Minneapolis Police Department for their aid throughout the event.
As a result of the killing of George Floyd, Sathanandan had previously called for the destruction of the Minneapolis Police Department, but this event has caused her perspective on law enforcement to undergo a dramatic shift. In the past, she has been critical of the police department for several systematic failings. On the other hand, a recent experience of hers has motivated her to advocate for stricter criminal punishments and greater accountability for those who commit crimes.
Ken Martin, the Chairman of the DFL in Minnesota, has conveyed his condolences to Sathanandan and her family, wishing for a speedy recovery for Sathanandan and justice for her attackers.